One Piece: Wielder of the Void

----

If one takes a tour of the Kingdom of Tru today, one would be struck by its beauty and remarkable transformation.

What's even more astounding is that this progress has been achieved in just a few short years.

Anos has been the king for five years now. At just 19 years old, he has already earned the reverence of his people, many of whom regard him as an almost divine figure, an omnipotent leader guiding their nation to unprecedented heights.

The kingdom's administrative structure has undergone significant reform. While corruption can never be entirely eradicated, the progress thus far is undeniable.

The governance in the Kingdom of Tru has maintained integrity, ensuring its continued growth.

Meanwhile, Alabasta, another major commercial hub, has not fully adopted the same aggressive development strategy as the Tru Kingdom.

Under Vivi's stewardship, the kingdom has focused on maintaining a balance between economic growth and sustainability.

Unlike Tru, which has leveraged rapid real estate development and industrialization, Alabasta has opted for gradual expansion.

This divergence stems from differing national needs and resources. A sudden economic influx could destabilize Alabasta's infrastructure, so restraint is necessary.

Even so, the Kingdom of Tru has spurred economic progress in Alabasta, with nearly half of its infrastructure projects funded by Tru's investments.

However, as the gap between the two nations' prosperity grows, dissatisfaction is brewing among Alabasta's citizens.

When basic needs like food and shelter are met, people inevitably start yearning for more.

This shift in mindset has led to discontent among some Alabastan citizens, who feel that the Tru Kingdom profits excessively from their land while they remain in modest conditions.

As of now, the Tru Kingdom operates over 130 processing plants in Alabasta. These facilities were granted tax exemptions for five years under a mutual agreement.

While this arrangement has allowed the factories to flourish and create jobs, it has also sparked protests among Alabasta's populace.

Some citizens and ministers believe these industries should be nationalized, allowing Alabasta to claim full control of the revenue.

King Cobra, who tirelessly oversees the kingdom's affairs, finds himself caught between maintaining the agreement and addressing his people's concerns.

While the tax exemptions have undoubtedly bolstered Alabasta's infrastructure, dissent among the ministers is rising.

In the palace hall of Alabasta, ministers gathered to debate the matter. Many argued that the agreement with the Tru Kingdom was a mistake, lamenting the potential revenue loss from the Rapeseed Port, which Tru now controls and has expanded into a massive trade hub.

"Your Majesty," a rotund minister spoke up, his tone laced with frustration. "The decision to grant tax exemptions to the Tru Kingdom has cost us dearly. We must reconsider our approach before it's too late!"

Cobra, seated on the throne, furrowed his brow. He was fully aware of the situation. The port had become a central hub for trade in the Grand Line, with ships from across the New World frequently docking there.

Any rash decision to breach the agreement could have catastrophic consequences.

"We cannot afford to break our agreement with the Tru Kingdom," Cobra said firmly. "The infrastructure they've built has been vital to our recovery. Reneging on this deal would tarnish our reputation and invite conflict. We must honour our commitments."

Another minister, dressed in a white robe, offered a suggestion. "If not the entire agreement, perhaps we could reclaim control of the Rapeseed Port? This would provide a significant boost to our economy."

"Indeed, Your Majesty," the rotund minister chimed in again. "By taking back the port, we could earn tens of billions of Beris annually."

Cobra sighed deeply, recognizing their frustration but remaining resolute. "Minister Zuo, have you discussed this matter with Losta?" he asked, referring to the Tru Kingdom's appointed liaison to Alabasta.

Minister Zuo hesitated before responding. "Your Majesty, I have spoken with Minister Losta. She insists that all dealings adhere strictly to the agreement. There is no room for negotiation."

This admission only deepened the tension in the room. The ministers knew the truth: without the Tru Kingdom, Alabasta's recent prosperity would crumble.

The factories employed thousands, and any disruption would plunge many citizens back into poverty.

Cobra shared their concerns but was acutely aware of the stakes. The agreement bore the seals of both kingdoms and was recognized by the World Government.

Breaching it could provoke not only economic retaliation but potentially even war something neither Alabasta nor Tru could afford.

In his heart, Cobra knew that patience and diplomacy were their only options. Despite the grumblings of his ministers, the king resolved to tread carefully, for the future of Alabasta depended on it.

----

Don't forget to drop some Power Stones!

For early access to advanced chapters on p@treon.

P@treon/iamxeno

Thank you so much for your support and for reading!